Corner Pocket: Revolutionizing Billiards Chalk Accessibility

Wearable innovation brings cue chalk within effortless reach for players

Corner Pocket addresses a longstanding challenge in cue sports: the inconvenience of traditional chalk holders. Inspired by the accessibility of wristwatches and the iconic form of a pool table’s corner pocket, this design relocates chalk from waist or pocket to the player’s wrist. This approach ensures chalk is always visible, accessible, and never disrupts the flow of play, eliminating the risk of misplacement or interruption during a match.

The device features a magnetic housing compatible with any standard 20 mm watch strap, allowing players to wear it like a timepiece. Two strong neodymium magnets secure the chalk holder, which can be effortlessly detached by sliding it sideways. Chalk is held by friction and can be replaced easily through a bottom opening using a cue stick. Customization is a key strength, with a range of colors, materials, and finishes available, as well as interchangeable holders to accommodate various chalk shapes and brands.

Manufactured using advanced 3D printing techniques, Corner Pocket achieves both cost efficiency and design flexibility. Prototyping began with watch components and magnets to refine the mechanism before finalizing the aesthetic. Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) 3D printing was ultimately chosen for its durability and ability to support a variety of finishes, enabling scalable production and future expansion into premium product ranges.

Research underpinning the design revealed that players often chalk less frequently due to inaccessibility, impacting shot accuracy. Traditional holders were found to stain clothing and were prone to being knocked off during play. User feedback and observation confirmed that a wrist-mounted solution would be non-disruptive and intuitive, bridging the gap between sports gear and wearable technology.

Overcoming technical challenges, such as securely locking magnets without adhesives or screws, led to the development of a three-part interlocking system. This innovation, combined with the adaptability of 3D printing, enables Corner Pocket to offer both practicality and personalization, setting a new standard for billiard accessories.

Corner Pocket by Tamas Fekete, recognized with the Iron A' Design Award in 2025, exemplifies how thoughtful design and technology can enhance the sporting experience, offering players a seamless and stylish way to keep their chalk at hand and their focus on the game.